Don't Lose Your Chance
An Invitation to Apply for the Parents and Grandparents Program is rare. Avoid these 6 common mistakes that could lead to immediate refusal.
1. Incomplete or Outdated Application
The #1 Reason for Rejection
Missing a single form, leaving a field blank, or using an old version of a document will cause your application to be returned. IRCC is extremely strict about completeness.
How to Avoid It:
- ✅ Always use the official IRCC Document Checklist for the current year.
- 📥 Download fresh forms directly from the IRCC website before you start.
- ✍️ Fill every single field. Use "N/A" if a question is not applicable.
2. Failing to Validate Digital Forms
Certain PDF forms require electronic validation to generate a crucial 2D barcode. Forgetting this step means the form is considered incomplete and will be rejected.
The Validation Process: Right vs. Wrong
How to Avoid It:
- 💻 Use Adobe Acrobat Reader (v10+) to fill and validate forms.
- 🔍 Look for the generated 2D barcodes on the last page before uploading.
3. Financial Documentation Errors
You must prove you meet the Minimum Necessary Income (MNI + 30%) for three consecutive tax years. Miscalculations or incorrect documents lead to automatic failure.
How to Avoid It:
- 📄 Only use official CRA-issued Notice of Assessments (NOAs).
- 🔢 Calculate income based on Line 15000 (Total Income) of your NOA.
- 👨👩👧👦 Ensure your family size calculation is correct and consistent for all 3 years.
4. Inconsistent Information
Your application is compared to your original Interest to Sponsor (ITS) form, often submitted years ago. Any discrepancies can be flagged as misrepresentation, even if accidental.
Then vs. Now Comparison
| Field | 2020 ITS Form | Current App |
|---|---|---|
| Name | Jon Smith | Jon Smith |
| Address | 123 Main St | 456 Oak Ave |
| Marital Status | Single | Married ❌ |
How to Avoid It:
- 🗂️ Refer to your original ITS form submission for all personal details.
- 📝 If details have genuinely changed, include a detailed Letter of Explanation with supporting documents.
5. Replying to "Do Not Reply" Emails
IRCC uses automated emails for updates. Replying to an address containing "donotreply" means your message, and any documents, will never be seen by an officer.
From: IRCC.Client-Update-Mise-a-jour.IRCC@cic.gc.ca
Subject: Important Update
Please provide the requested document...
Don't Reply
Use Web Form
How to Avoid It:
- 👀 Always check the sender's email address before responding.
- ➡️ Follow the specific instructions in the email for how to submit information, which is usually via the IRCC Web Form.
6. Omitting Gaps in Personal History
Applicants must provide a complete, continuous history for the last 10 years. Unexplained gaps for periods of unemployment or travel are a major red flag.
2020-2024: Employed
Software Developer at Tech Corp
2018-2020: GAP ❌
This period must be explained.
2014-2018: Employed
Junior Developer at Web Inc
How to Avoid It:
- 🗓️ Cover the last 10 years (or since age 18) without any time gaps.
- 🗣️ Clearly state the activity for all periods, e.g., "Unemployed - Seeking Work," "Travel," or "Homemaker."
